1998 BMW 318 vs. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R

To start off, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is newer by 10 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1998 BMW 318. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1998 BMW 318 would be higher. At 6,208 cc (8 cylinders), 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (503 HP @ 6800 RPM) has 413 more horse power than 1998 BMW 318. (90 HP @ 4400 RPM) In normal driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R should accelerate faster than 1998 BMW 318. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R weights approximately 1085 kg more than 1998 BMW 318. So despite on having greater horse power, its additional weight may have an impact towards its acceleration in comparison.

Because 2008 Mercedes-Benz R is four wheel drive (4WD), it will have significant more traction and grip than 1998 BMW 318. In wet, icy, snow, or gravel driving conditions, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will offer significantly more control. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 2008 Mercedes-Benz R (630 Nm @ 5200 RPM) has 440 more torque (in Nm) than 1998 BMW 318. (190 Nm @ 2000 RPM). This means 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 1998 BMW 318. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R has automatic transmission and 1998 BMW 318 has manual transmission. 1998 BMW 318 will offer better control over acceleration and deceleration in addition to better fuel efficiency overall. 2008 Mercedes-Benz R will be easier to drive especially in heavy traffic.

Compare all specifications:

1998 BMW 318 2008 Mercedes-Benz R
Make BMW Mercedes-Benz
Model 318 R
Year Released 1998 2008
Engine Position Front Front
Engine Size 1665 cc 6208 cc
Engine Cylinders 4 cylinders 8 cylinders
Engine Type in-line V
Horse Power 90 HP 503 HP
Engine RPM 4400 RPM 6800 RPM
Torque 190 Nm 630 Nm
Torque RPM 2000 RPM 5200 RPM
Engine Bore Size 80 mm 102.2 mm
Engine Stroke Size 82.8 mm 94.6 mm
Fuel Type Diesel Gasoline - Premium
Top Speed 175 km/hour 250 km/hour
Acceleration 0-100mph 13.9 seconds 5.1 seconds
Drive Type Rear 4WD
Transmission Type Manual Automatic
Number of Seats 5 seats 6 seats
Number of Doors 5 doors 5 doors
Vehicle Weight 1290 kg 2375 kg
Vehicle Length 4220 mm 5160 mm
Vehicle Width 1700 mm 1930 mm
Vehicle Height 1400 mm 1640 mm
Wheelbase Size 2840 mm 3220 mm
Fuel Tank Capacity 55 L 80 L